Upgrades planned for stretch of A1A in Hollywood

The Florida Department of Transportation soon will start work to repair a two-mile stretch of A1A in Hollywood.

The project will run from Seacrest Parkway to Azalea Terrace. Construction, which is slated to begin in April and end in October, is estimated to cost $2,250,000.

Miami-based General Asphalt Company will be the contractor for the project.

"It's what we call a three R job: resurfacing, restoration and rehabilitation," said Rudolph Batz, FDOT's area engineer. "We take out existing asphalt and replace it with new asphalt and make it look pretty. There is also some drainage work that needs to be done, and there's a whole matrix of pipes that need to be replaced or repaired."

Other improvements will include upgrading signs, installing two new mast arms at Ocean Drive and Magnolia Terrace and replacing all pavement markings on the roadway. Mast arms are structures that support traffic signals and signage.

Bus stops, driveways and sidewalks will be replaced. The sidewalks will have ramps added to provide easier access and to improve safety for those with disabilities.

Donald Little, the project's administrator, said FDOT will get regular updates through biweekly meetings with the construction team. Residents also will be provided with information, especially those directly impacted by work.

"Residents whose driveways will be affected will be notified in advance," Little said.

Residents can expect lane closures during non-peak, daylight hours. Weekday construction will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.